Active Business · NSNP

Nova Scotia Entrepreneur Stream

Atlantic Canada's most dynamic business destination. Halifax is a growing technology and ocean-economy hub — with one of the fastest-rising entrepreneurial ecosystems on the East Coast.

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Colourful waterfront buildings in Nova Scotia.

CAD 100K+

Min. Investment (outside HRM)

CAD 100–150K

Min. Investment (outside / inside HRM)

CAD 400–600K

Net Worth (outside / inside HRM)

EOI

Invitation-only

1 FTE

Jobs Required

Program Overview

Business Immigration to Nova Scotia

The Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) Entrepreneur Stream allows experienced business owners and senior managers to establish or acquire a Nova Scotia business and gain permanent residence.

Halifax is a university city with a young workforce, strong technology sector, and growing venture capital ecosystem. The province is open to food-tech, ocean economy, life sciences, clean energy, and creative industries.

Key Advantage: NSNP does not require a mandatory Business Exploration Visit — one of the few programs where the initial process can be completed entirely online.

Sector priorities:

Technology and software
Ocean economy (aquaculture, marine services)
Life sciences and health tech
Clean energy and environment
Food and beverage
Creative industries

Eligibility Requirements

NSNP Entrepreneur — Requirements

Net Worth

Minimum CAD 600,000 for a business inside Halifax Regional Municipality (HRM), or CAD 400,000 outside HRM. Full source-of-funds disclosure required.

Business Experience

At least 3 years actively managing and owning a business (minimum one-third ownership), or more than 5 years in a senior business management role.

Investment & Employment

Minimum CAD 150,000 of your own funds for a business inside HRM, or CAD 100,000 outside HRM. Create at least 1 full-time permanent job for a Canadian citizen or PR.

Investment & Fees

Cost Structure

Estimated total financial commitment. Government fees are fixed and non-refundable.

Item	Description	Amount (CAD)
Business Investment (inside HRM)	Own funds invested in a NS business	CAD 150,000 min
Business Investment (outside HRM)	Own funds invested in a NS business	CAD 100,000 min
NSNP Application Fee	Provincial processing fee (non-refundable)	CAD 3,000
IRCC PR Application Fee	Federal PR application (per adult)	CAD 1,505
RPRF	Right of Permanent Residence Fee	CAD 515

Active Business · NSNP

Atlantic Canada's most dynamic business destination. Halifax is a growing technology and ocean-economy hub — with one of the fastest-rising entrepreneurial ecosystems on the East Coast.

CanadaRBI — Regional Business Immigration Platform

Application Process

NSNP Entrepreneur — Application Process

Eligibility Review & Concept Development

We assess net worth, business experience, and sector fit with Nova Scotia's priorities. A business concept is drafted for NSNP review.

Expression of Interest (EOI)

Submit an Expression of Interest. The Entrepreneur Stream is by invitation only.

Invitation & Full Application

If invited by Labour, Skills and Immigration, submit the full application with business plan, financial evidence and management CV for review.

Business Performance Agreement

Sign a BPA specifying investment amounts, employment, and timeline commitments.

Entrepreneur Work Permit

Apply for the work permit using the Performance Agreement.

Business Launch & Operations

Establish or acquire the NS business. Invest committed capital and hire required local staff.

Performance Verification & Nomination

The province verifies all milestones. Provincial nomination is issued and federal PR process begins.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Business Exploration Visit mandatory?

No. NSNP does not require a mandatory exploration visit — the initial process can be completed online.

What is the minimum net worth?

CAD 600,000 for a business inside HRM, or CAD 400,000 outside HRM.

Can I operate a tech startup in Halifax?

Yes. Technology is a priority sector. Halifax has a growing startup ecosystem with access to university talent.

Ready to Explore Nova Scotia?

Connect with a licensed RCIC or immigration lawyer through our network to evaluate your eligibility and navigate the NSNP Entrepreneur application.

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